The Sharks return to Johannesburg on Saturday with the knowledge that little separates them from the Lions on the URC table.

Locked together on 24 points, with only points difference splitting ninth and 10th place, the weekend’s lone fixture carries significant implications for both sides’ playoff ambitions.

SHARKS KEEN TO TURN TABLES ON LIONS

The previous meeting between the teams delivered one of the season’s most dramatic finishes, as the Lions claimed a 23-22 victory in Durban after the final hooter.

Having conceded 15 points inside the opening 10 minutes that night, the Sharks regrouped admirably and edged ahead following Lions loose forward Ruan Venter’s sending off on the stroke of half-time. Edwill van der Merwe’s third-quarter try appeared to have done enough for the hosts, yet Haashim Pead’s late dart from close range ultimately settled that contest.

Sharks prop Vincent Koch admitted that result has not been forgotten as the Durban outfit prepare for the return clash at Ellis Park.

“We’ve spoken about that game and the way it ended, because we put ourselves in a strong position,” Koch said on Tuesday. “To lose it after the 80th minute hurt, and we know we have to be sharper in those final moments.”

KOCH CREDITS NEW COACH FOR SHARKS REVIVAL

After successive victories over the Stormers before the break, the Sharks will now return to action high in confidence. But Koch said the pause in the schedule arrived at an opportune time following a demanding run of fixtures.

“The previous block was intense and it tested us physically and mentally, so the break allowed the guys to recover properly,” he explained. “We came back last week with a clear picture of what we want from the next two matches.”

Under head coach JP Pietersen, the emphasis has shifted toward collective responsibility and enjoyment in performance; an approach which has yielded the desired results.

“When Coach JP took over, he reminded us what the jersey represents and why we play this game,” Koch said.

“He’s encouraged us to express ourselves and to back each other in every situation.”

Koch believes that unity has translated into greater effort in tight exchanges and defensive passages.

“You can see the willingness to work for one another, whether it’s covering across field or fighting to protect a lead,” he said.

IMPORTANCE OF LOOMING DERBIES

With a trip to face the Bulls looming next week, the Sharks understand the importance of building momentum in Gauteng this week.

“We’re aware of our position on the log and what these points mean. If we get the results we’re targeting over the next two weeks, we’ll give ourselves a real opportunity.”

Still, he expects a fierce challenge from a Lions side eager to complete a season double.

“They beat us at home, so we respect what they bring, especially playing in Johannesburg. It’s going to come down to who manages the big moments better, and we’re determined to make sure it’s us this time,” the Sharks front rower concluded.